DramaWay is now an officially registered charity!
This moment marks a powerful new chapter for our community. What started as a space for creativity and connection has grown into something even bigger: a thriving, inclusive arts community where every individual is valued, supported and celebrated.
Becoming a registered charity allows us to expand our reach, deepen our impact and continue delivering high-quality inclusive arts programming for individuals of allabilities. It strengthens our ability to grow sustainably while staying true to our mission of accessibility, creativity and belonging.
We’re celebrating with a month-long fundraising campaign!
To mark this exciting milestone, we are launching a month-long fundraising campaign in support of our specialized arts programs and our year-end Annual Arts Showcase on June 6th and 7th.
Throughout the month, we will be sharing powerful stories of impact, behind-the-scenes moments from our programs and highlights from the beautiful and vibrant community that makes DramaWay so special.
Our goal is to raise $20,000 in 1 month!
As a registered charity (757687272 RR 0001), you can now receive official tax receipts for your donations, making it even easier to support DramaWay in a meaningful way.
With your support, we aim to raise $20,000 in just 30 days to continue building accessible, impactful arts experiences for our performers.
Here's how YOU can get involved:
GIVE a One-time or Monthly contribution using the form on this page
GIVE via E-transfer to accounting@dramaway.com
GIVE via Cheque made out to DramaWay and mail to 11 Emmett Avenue, Toronto, ON M6M 2E3
Follow along on social media: Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, LinkedIn
Together, we can ensure DramaWay continues to grow, thrive and inspire for years to come.
To our participants, families, staff and supporters, this is because of you. Thank you for believing in what we do.
Our new chapter starts now ✨
Click here or scroll down to explore our Spotlights and see the impact you help make possible!
THANK YOU!
Over the past month, we’ve celebrated 25+ years of DramaWay, honouring our journey, sharing powerful stories and highlighting the impact of inclusive arts in the lives of our performers, caregivers and community.
Because of you, our Annual Arts Showcase and year-round programs continue to thrive! Your generosity fuels creativity, connection, confidence and belonging while also ensuring that DramaWay will keep growing and evolving for years to come.
This campaign may be coming to a close, but our story is still being written… and we invite you all to join Our Next Chapter.
There’s still time to be part of it. Every contribution big or small, helps us move forward and continue changing lives through the arts.
Hope to see you all out at our upcoming Annual Arts Showcase featuring our talented Performers on June 6th & 7th! Stay tuned for ticketing details very soon.
SPOTLIGHTS:
April 1st: The DramaWay Story
April 3rd: Alexis
April 5th: Ouriana
April 7th: Jeffrey
April 9th: Spring
April 11th: Colyn
April 13th: Show Building Spotlight
April 15th: Dianne
April 17th: Harry
April 19th: Elizabeth
April 21st: Costumes Spotlight
April 23rd: Jonathan
April 25th: Alex
April 27th: Balew
April 29th: Quentin
Click the link beside each date
April 29th: Quentin
Quentin has been a vibrant part of the DramaWay community for the past three years, bringing energy, creativity and passion to every program he joins. He has also supported our team as a volunteer with our Set crew, always ready to lend a hand behind the scenes.
A truly captivating performer, Quentin embraces new roles each year and consistently shines on stage. From his memorable role as the Robo-Butler in our superhero-inspired production to his latest role as Lewis Carroll in Alice in Wonderland, he continues to impress and inspire.
Outside of DramaWay, Quentin shares his love for animals through his work as a Canine Coach and Pet Attendant at Pooches Playhouse and as a volunteer with the Toronto Humane Society. His favourite part of the job is spending time interacting with animals and building those special connections.
Known for his dedication and drive, Quentin also enjoys weightlifting, Hyrox, and CrossFit and even runs his own YouTube channel where he live streams on weekends. When it is time to relax, you can find him enjoying a stroll through the mall or sitting down for a great meal at Moxies or Joey’s.
Quentin brings a strong, positive energy to every space he is part of, and his enthusiasm is truly contagious.
Why not help Quentin and his DramaWay friends keep the creativity, connection, and joy going by GIVING today!
April 27th: Balew
Smiles. Energy. Passion.
That’s the rhythm Balew brings into every room. From the moment he arrives, sometimes early, making time for his snack before class, to the second the music starts, Balew is all in! Whether he’s grooving through dance, stepping into character wearing his wig in Theatre, or simply joyfully belting out Hannah Montana in Vocal class, Balew shows up with a spirit that’s both infectious and inspiring. There’s a spark to Balew that reminds us why these inclusive spaces matter, because when he’s here, he’s not just participating, he’s shining!
At DramaWay, performers like Balew are given the space to express, connect and grow through the arts in ways that build confidence and community. His dedication week after week is a powerful reminder of the impact of inclusive programming.
We can’t do it without you. Help us continue creating moments like these by supporting our performers today.
Your donation ensures that Balew and so many others can keep showing up, taking the stage and sharing their light behind and in front of the curtains. ✨
April 25th: Alex
Meet Alex, one of our incredibly dedicated performers who truly does it all. Between attending college, working and participating in multiple programs across the GTA, Alex manages to make time for what she loves most: performing. Her passion, energy and commitment shine both on and off the stage, and her joy for the arts continues to inspire everyone around her. ✨
In her video, Alex shares a glimpse into her world, including a special carpool karaoke moment with her friend and actor, Jay Davis. Featured in this video, is their shared love of music which captures the joy, friendship and community that fuel Alex’s journey. It’s these meaningful connections, paired with her unstoppable spirit, that make Alex such a vibrant part of our DramaWay family. 💫 Alex gives a big shout out to Jay.
Jay Davis is a Canadian actor, singer, and producer with a career spanning over 30 years in musical theatre, television, and film. His stage credits include Bittergirl The Musical, Evangeline, Little Women, Anne of Green Gables, Life After, and Dear Evan Hansen, as well as international productions such as Miss Saigon in London’s West End and a European tour of Jesus Christ Superstar. His work has been part of Dora Award–winning productions, and he has appeared on screen in series including Designated Survivor, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Titans. A bari-tenor, he is also a musician and producer involved in projects connected to the Bublé Christmas tour.
If Alex’s story makes you smile, consider supporting performers like her by GIVING to DramaWay today. Every contribution… big or small, helps keep the spotlight shining. ❤️
April 23rd: Jonathan
Jonathan has been a dedicated and long-standing member of our DramaWay community, bringing his enthusiasm, creativity and spirit to every program he’s part of. Over the years, he has explored it all, from Theatre to Multi-Arts to Shakespeare and Show Building, always embracing each experience with confidence and joy.
Known for his great sense of humour, Jonathan keeps everyone smiling with his jokes and playful energy. Fun fact: Jonathan is our resident dinosaur expert, always ready to share his impressive knowledge with pride. 🦖
Always arriving to class with a smile, Jonathan brings a positive energy that uplifts everyone around him.
Help keep the smiles, laughter and creativity going for Jonathan and his DramaWay friends by GIVING today!
April 21st: Costumes Spotlight
From sweet smiles, waves in the Drama space at ErinoakKids, to cheering alongside family and friends at DramaWay performances at the beautiful RBC Theatre at The Living Arts Centre and the historic Todmorden Mills Papermill Theatre, or arranging and hosting an entire Cast & Crew party, Nancy has been a key player at DramaWay over the years.
Inspired by her daughter Juliana's DramaWay involvement, Nancy and her entire family began volunteering years ago, helping out at our DramaWay showcases, supporting front of house and ushering audiences with care and enthusiasm.
With an interest in costume design and a never ending deep compassion for helping others, our dedicated and outstanding Costume Designer was discovered!
Now, supporting DramaWay as lead Costume Designer, Nancy has made and invented many memorable and iconic costume pieces for us, all while consistently keeping DramaWay’s philosophy of putting performers’ needs first during costume consults and check-ins, alongside her daughter Juliana who is also a long time Performer and Ambassador.
Nancy now drives well over an hour each way for weekly team meetings and performer costume consults and try-ons. The bond and friendships that have been forged can never be replaced. A true community has been built.
You too can be part of this magical DramaWay community by joining us as a volunteer or simply by GIVING today!
April 19th: Elizabeth
Elizabeth has brought a thoughtful and creative presence to the DramaWay community over the past couple of years, sharing her love for storytelling in every class. She approaches each activity with curiosity and care, always finding unique and meaningful ways to express herself.
Outside of DramaWay, Elizabeth enjoys creating art and writing fiction, building her own stories inspired by characters and worlds she loves. She is a published author of her own series about Victor, a nice alien. Her passion for storytelling carries into her theatre work, where her imagination comes alive on stage.
One of her standout DramaWay moments was performing in last year’s showcase as Rizzo, a bold and outspoken character where she fully embraced the role and shined.
In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys visiting Wonderland and the Toronto Zoo, places that spark joy, adventure and inspiration. A highlight of her DramaWay experience was performing in last year’s theatre showcase as Rizzo, a bold and outspoken character, where she fully embraced the role and shined. You won’t want to miss her in this year’s production!
Elizabeth’s creativity, voice and imagination make her a valued part of the DramaWay community, and we are so excited to see what she creates next.
Help Elizabeth and her fellow performers continue to grow, create and tell their stories by GIVING today!
April 17th: Harry
Harry has been a dedicated part of the DramaWay community for over 10 years, bringing his energy, commitment and unmistakable presence to our Multi-Arts program. Through multiple location changes and transitions, Harry has remained a constant, showing up with enthusiasm and a genuine love for being part of the community.
Harry is known for his booming laughter, inquisitive nature and incredible ability to truly listen and engage with those around him. His sharp memory and attention to detail make every interaction meaningful, and his active participation brings something special to every class.
Over the years, Harry has built strong, lasting friendships and has become a deeply valued member of the DramaWay family. His consistency, warmth and curiosity make him someone others are always excited to see.
Harry’s journey is a beautiful reflection of connection, growth and the power of community through the arts!
April 15th: Dianne
D is for dedication
I is for imagination
A is for authenticity
N is for nurturing friendships
N is for never giving up
E is for every joyful giggle that lights up the room
Dianne may be quiet at first, but her presence speaks volumes. A longtime member of the DramaWay family, she’s explored it all. You name it she’d done it …
Theatre, 🎭 Dance, 💃🏾 Vocal, 🎤 summer programs and more! She is always showing up with a steady commitment and a love for being alongside her friends. And then come the giggles… those unmistakable moments of joy that remind us just how much she’s soaking it all in, living each role in her own beautifully genuine way.
Performers like Dianne are at the heart of everything we do. With your support, we can continue creating inclusive spaces where Dianne and so many others can grow, connect and shine in their own time and voice.
Help us keep these moments alive by GIVING today!
April 13th: Show Building Program Spotlight
🎭✨ Anything Goes… and EVERYONE shines! ✨🎭
At DramaWay, our Show Building Program is where creativity, confidence and community take centre stage.
Developed and led by Morgan Joy, this high-energy program is rooted in collaboration and imagination. Performers come together to write, create and perform their very own variety show filled with singing, dancing, comedy and drama. Each piece is shaped by their ideas, their voices and their unique talents, making every performance truly one-of-a-kind!
Don’t miss the show! This Friday, April 17th at 7 PM at Sweet Action Theatre (180 Shaw St #106, Toronto). Free admission. All ages welcome.
Your donation helps make programs like this possible and gives our performers the opportunity to create, express, and shine.
Support DramaWay today and be part of the magic!
April 11th: Colyn
Colyn is a new and exciting addition to our DramaWay community, already bringing a natural enthusiasm for performance and a strong creative spark. He’s quickly making his mark through his dedication, curiosity and openness to exploring new opportunities on stage.
This year, he will make his stage debut as the Mad Hatter in Wonderland: The Next Chapter, and we couldn’t be more excited to see him bring this iconic character to life! 🎩
One of Colyn’s standout strengths is his expressive voice. He has a unique ability to bring characters to life using different accents and vocal styles. His creativity, adaptability and willingness to dive into new challenges make him a joy to watch both on and off the stage.
Colyn’s energy, talent and passion for the arts make him a performer you won’t want to miss!
If you’d like to support artists like Colyn and help us continue creating inclusive, empowering arts opportunities, consider making a donation today!
April 9th: Spring
Spring has been a dedicated member of the DramaWay community for several years, bringing her creativity, energy and commitment into every program she’s part of. Whether she’s performing on stage or supporting others behind the scenes, she shows up with heart, enthusiasm and a genuine love for the arts.
Outside of DramaWay, Spring leads a full and vibrant life. She works at Judy’s Beach Café and Do Good Donuts, runs her own scrunchie business @springsweetcanada on Instagram and Facebook, and still finds time to give back through volunteering with Canadian Blood Services and supporting the Special Olympics. She’s also a strong swimmer with the Sunshine Team at Variety Village and loves staying active through dance.
Spring’s ability to balance work, creativity, community involvement and friendship is something truly special. She brings positivity everywhere she goes and continues to inspire those around her with her passion and perseverance.
Help us continue creating spaces where artists of all abilities can thrive 💫
April 7th: Jeffrey
🎭 Jeffrey once serenaded nearly every girl in his high school with “Angel” by Shaggy and now he’s bringing that same star power to DramaWay! This is Jeffrey’s first official theatre program, but performing is nothing new to him! He leads his band “Country Stars”, puts on birthday shows with his sister Natalie (often directing and casting her as backup) and comes from a family of performers. Fact: His grandfather played guitar with Tony Bennett!
Jeffrey also appeared in the DramaWay PIFF film “I Knead Your Love” and will make his stage debut at Papermill Theatre in June as “The Door to Adventure” in “Wonderland: The Next Chapter”.
Jeffrey’s sister, Natalie Metcalfe is a two-time Canadian Comedy Award winner and Second City alum who created and show-ran Made For TV (Crave), written for the 2025 Canadian Screen Awards, appeared in Abroad (OMNI) and Twisted Metal (Amazon), and performs online with Christian Smith as Christian & Nat, where Jeffrey has even joined improvised sketches like “We’re Going to Rob a Bank!” 🎬Clearly, if there’s a stage (or a camera), this family will find it!
From music to film to the stage, Jeffrey brings energy, creativity and confidence to everything he does and we can’t wait to see him shine!
Help performers like Jeffrey continue to grow, create and take the stage by supporting DramaWay today!
April 5th: Ouriana
Ouriana’s love for theatre began many years ago when she first joined a DramaWay program at ErinoakKids. Even at a young age, she dreamed of being on stage! Since then, she has brought that dream to life time and time again, taking on many roles and embracing every opportunity to perform.
Through the arts, she has discovered a place where she can truly shine, grow and express herself.
Today, Ouriana is flourishing, building meaningful friendships and growing in confidence with each new experience. Her mom has seen an incredible transformation as Ouriana steps into the spotlight, whether she’s singing at the DSAP gala, singing at her church, performing at her own birthday celebrations or sharing her voice with a crowd.
She brings joy, bravery and heart to every performance!
Keep the spotlight on Ouriana and her friends at DramaWay by GIVING today!
April 3rd: Alexis
Over the past two years, Alexis has grown into a confident and creative presence in the DramaWay community, bringing a love for performance to every class she joins.
One of Alexis’s most special moments at DramaWay was stepping onto the stage and performing for the very first time. That experience marked an exciting milestone in her journey, highlighting her courage, growth and passion for the arts.
Beyond the stage, Alexis enjoys expressing herself through painting, cooking and dancing. She also loves exploring the city, from Ossington and Bloor West to Yorkdale and High Park, embracing opportunities to relax, have fun and connect with others.
Alexis is also the muse and inspiration behind her sister’s Instagram account, Classic But Not Common, a space that celebrates her unique style and spirit.
Alexis’s enthusiasm and confidence make her a joy to watch, and we are so excited to see her continue to grow as a performer.
Help Alexis and her DramaWay friends continue to build confidence, creativity and connection by GIVING today at dramaway.com/give
April 1st: The DramaWay Story
As a child, our Founder and Executive Director, Danielle Strnad would perform little skits in her bathtub, using the shower curtain as her theatre curtain. That early love of storytelling eventually grew into something much bigger.
In 1999, Danielle founded DramaWay with just one drama class and five performers, believing that individuals of all abilities deserved meaningful opportunities to explore the arts in a supportive and compassionate environment.
Today, that single class has grown into a thriving charitable inclusive arts organization, supported by a passionate team of artists, educators and advocates. DramaWay now offers a wide range of accessible arts programming from theatre and dance to music and film, as well as accessibility consulting, training and workshops for organizations and industry partners including companies such as Disney. To date, DramaWay has impacted over 10,000 performers and families.
From bathtub stages to professional stages with real theatre curtains, the dream has grown and so has the impact.
As we begin this exciting new chapter, we invite you to help keep the curtains rising for performers of all abilities by GIVING today.
